North Korea launches ballistic missiles

North Korea launched ballistic missiles toward the Sea of Japan at approximately 06:10 local time on April 19, 2026. According to the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Japanese Ministry of Defense, the missiles originated from the Sinpo region on the North's east coast. The projectiles landed in waters near the North Korean coast, well outside Japan's Exclusive Economic Zone. This marks the first such launch since April 8, when two missiles were fired from the Wonsan area. Experts, including Lim Eul-chul from Kyungnam University, suggest Pyongyang is leveraging global distractions to advance its nuclear and missile capabilities. Meanwhile, IAEA chief Rafael Grossi has reiterated concerns over the state's nuclear progress. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un previously stated that his country's path toward becoming a nuclear power is irreversible and essential for national security.